Song Sung Blue

The film is a documentary about Mike and Claire Sardina, song revivalists famous for performing the works of Neil Diamond and Patsy Cline respectively. It shows this loving couple and their passion for music and performing. We see the tragedies that befall Mike and Claire's family in ways only life can supply. We see them at their most irresponsible, their most fragile, their bravest, and their best. Does the film have a happy ending? Does any life have a happy ending? All that is to be said is that they lived life on their terms for good or bad. Whether they triumphed or not is up for debate. What is undeniable is that they persevered.

I watched the Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson version without realizing it was based on a true story. After finishing it, I wanted to learn more about Mike and Claire Sardina and this documentary does not disappoint. My advice is to watch the theatrical version first and then, a few days later, watch the documentary. It inspired the film and offers a much deeper dive into the real events behind the story.

I found it fascinating to see how director and writer Craig Brewer interpreted Mike and Claire's musical journey and translated their experiences into the film's narrative. The home videos featured in the documentary clearly informed the actors' character development and performances in the theatrical version. The documentary also provides a far richer look at Claire's personal journey, including her eventual meeting with Neil Diamond, while the film focuses more heavily on her relationship with Mike.

And finally, I didn't expect the documentary to tug at my heartstrings, especially knowing how the Sardinas' story ends. But having a deeper understanding of their lives made the ending feel even more real...and heartbreaking.